A lot goes into capturing the images that will capture your wedding day. It’s more than just a camera and some software, it’s a skill that takes years of practice to master. Wedding photography can seem daunting, but it’s more do-able than you think. You only get one shot at your big day, so hiring the right professional can make all the difference in how you look on your album cover decades down the road.

While it’s great to read reviews and ask for references from past clients, you can also go a step further and actually talk to the photographer about their work. Ask them what they like to do best, what their favorite shots are, and how they’d approach your specific wedding. They may have a few pre-planned photos in mind that they know are important to you (like close-ups of the ring and your gorgeous florals), but it’s always good to give them some flexibility so they can bring their own ideas to the table.

There are a few different styles to photography, but some of the more popular include posed portraits and candid, documentary-style photos. Each has its pros and cons, so it’s important to find a style that aligns with your preferences and the vision you have for your day.

It’s easy to overlook the importance of lighting when it comes to your wedding photos, but the right light can help you feel more confident and beautiful in your frame. For example, shooting with a lower f-stop number can create soft, dreamy, romantic photos, while using strobes can add dramatic flair to your images and overpower harsh sunlight.

You’ve spent weeks, months or even years planning your big day, so you want to be sure your photographer understands the details of what you’re looking for on that day. Send a list of key shots you’d like, and include if you want them in black and white or color. It’s also helpful to include a few photos of yourself so the photographer can have a frame of reference when they take your portraits.

First looks are one of the most emotional and memorable moments of a wedding day, so it’s definitely worth asking your photographer to capture them. Whether it’s in the form of a private moment before the ceremony or an image captured after the toasts, these images will make your heart melt forever.

You’re celebrating with your family and friends, so it’s a good idea to set aside some time for solo or couple photos. It’s not uncommon for couples to miss these opportunities due to a packed schedule or FOMO (fear of missing out). However, this is an opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones and capture some incredible candid moments.